HCFF Back to School Family Day & Dose of Truth Info Session
About this Event
Join HCFF for a powerful afternoon of celebration, education, and empowerment!
Harlem Cultural Festival Foundation proudly brings together two signature community programs: Back to School Family Day (presented by DoubleVerify) and Dose of Truth (supported by Pfizer, Inc.) for a free event with resources, real talk, and community joy.
DATE: Saturday, September 5, 2026
TIME: 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM | Panel Discussions at 1:00, 2:00 & 3:00 PM
LOCATION: Thurgood Marshall Academy, 200-214 W. 135th Street @ ACP
FREE ADMISSION
Back to School Family Day
Get your kids ready for the new school year with:
- Free backpack & school supply giveaway (while supplies last!)
- Face painting and kids activities
- Food and refreshments
Dose of Truth Info Session
A dedicated space for real conversations with medical experts, public health professionals, and community leaders.
- 1:00 PM Community Immunity: M.A.T.H. - Myths, Awareness, Trust & Healing
- 2:00 PM Breaking Barriers - Diversity in Clinical Trials & Building Trust in Science Through Representation
- 3:00 PM Sustaining Immunity - Understanding Vaccine Schedules, Current Policies & Community Action
MODERATOR:
Dr. Yolanda Lewis-Smalls
Director of Health Equity & Community Impact, HCFF
Double Board-Certified Physician
Dr. Yolanda Lewis-Smalls brings more than 20 years of medical practice and public health advocacy to her role as moderator. With deep clinical expertise alongside a nuanced understanding of the cultural and historical factors that shape vaccine hesitancy, Dr. Yolanda has a firm belief that culturally grounded, community-informed dialogue is the foundation for lasting health change.
GUEST SPEAKERS:
Dr. Jasmine Blake, MD, MSPH
Internist & Pediatrician | NYC & Long Island
Catrice Davis
Vice Chair, Health & Human Services, Community Board 10 | Harlem Hospital Community Advisory Board Member
PLUS: Free Giveaway presented by Southwest Airlines!
Enter for a chance to win a free roundtrip Southwest Airlines ticket
(Winner selected after panel discussions.)
WHO SHOULD ATTEND?
This free event is for everyone in the Harlem community, including:
- Parents & caregivers prepping for the school year
- Anyone seeking trusted, evidence-based health information
- Educators & school administrators
- Faith leaders & community advocates
- All who care about the health and well-being of Harlem
Bring the whole family and start the new school year informed, empowered, and connected!
Where is it happening?
Event Location & Nearby Stays:
USD 0.00
